Timeline extended for Germain Park recreation projects in Sarnia

The City of Sarnia has been granted additional time to use federal and provincial funding allocated for recreation projects in Germain Park, giving municipal officials until 2032 to spend the remaining grant dollars.

The funding was originally approved in 2021 through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to support two major initiatives: the replacement of the former Jackson Pool and an expansion of the Strangway Centre gymnasium. The previous deadline required the funds to be used by March 2027.

Approximately $1.4 million was committed toward the pool replacement and about $2.6 million toward the gymnasium project. Updated estimates place the total cost of a new pool at roughly $6 million, while the gym expansion is projected at about $14 million.

Both projects form part of the broader Germain Park master plan endorsed by council in 2023. The plan outlines long term improvements across the park, including new recreational amenities, upgraded pathways, additional parking, sports facility enhancements, landscaping, and accessibility features. Separate from the pool and gym projects, other planned upgrades carry an estimated cost of about $7 million.

City staff continue to work through annual budget planning to determine the timing of major capital investments. Municipal funding remains necessary to complete the projects even with grant support in place.

Construction activity connected to the master plan is expected to continue in phases. Work on a new splash pad is anticipated to begin in 2026, alongside other park improvements already underway.

The extended timeline is intended to provide flexibility for the city to align project planning with financial priorities while maintaining access to the previously approved infrastructure funding.

Learn more: Germain Park Master Plan.